The Cameroonian startup ecosystem is growing, and accelerators are central to it. A new acceleration center has been added at Douala, Cameroon’s economic capital. The Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts (Minpmeesa), Achille Bassilekin III, has officially inaugurated the Acceleration Center of Companies (JFN-IT E4 IMPACT Accelerator).

“This center will provide local entrepreneurs and project leaders with 360-degree support for the growth of their businesses and will transform project ideas with high potential into real prosperous businesses with high social and environmental impact,” Bassilekin said at the launch.

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Acceleration Center Douala

Here Is What You Need To Know

• This center, explains the Minister, acts as a crossroads where all entrepreneurs and project leaders can collaborate within the Cameroonian innovation ecosystem. 
• It aims to promote the acquisition of skills in innovation and entrepreneurship among students, graduates, job seekers and employees; to mobilize business leaders and funders that the business development and acceleration center counts.
• The incubation model of the center revolves around a business development program aimed at young entrepreneurs in the ICT and agro-industry sectors. 
• For the president of the said center, Alphonse Nafack, this incubation structure marks his commitment to contribute to the socio-economic development of the country through the implementation of numerous initiatives in favor of young people in both the banking and educational sectors.

Charles Rapulu Udoh

Charles Rapulu Udoh is a Lagos-based lawyer who has advised startups across Africa on issues such as startup funding (Venture Capital, Debt financing, private equity, angel investing etc), taxation, strategies, etc. He also has special focus on the protection of business or brands’ intellectual property rights ( such as trademark, patent or design) across Africa and other foreign jurisdictions.
He is well versed on issues of ESG (sustainability), media and entertainment law, corporate finance and governance.
He is also an award-winning writer